chiller pumps?

[TaylorLee]

I just recently purchased a chiller and was wondering what type of pump do i need for it? is it a specific type pump ill need or is it the same as a return pump for a sump? any info is helpful info. Suggestions on which pump is best and at a reasonable price would be much appreciated!
Thanks!
-Taylor

 

[kateater]

Return pump I use a mag 9.5 on mine. Need to size it according to the chiller rating. Too much flow won't cool water down as efficient.

 

[mfinn]

You can use any kind of pump you want.
Just match it up with the manufactures recomended flow rates.

 

[TaylorLee]

its recommended 250-600gph. so you think i should go with like a 400gph pump?

 

[KoleTang]

600 gph will make better use of your chiller.

 

[mfinn]

its recommended 250-600gph. so you think i should go with like a 400gph pump?

Yeah, I would go for somewhere in the middle, taking into account any headloss.

 

[TaylorLee]

Alright thanks everybody!! You've been a big help

 

[AZDesertRat]

Place the chiller in your return pump circuit. Why add an extra pump and the heat it creates, this is counterproductive. Use the pump you have without adding anything more.

 

[mfinn]

I think that by having a chiller, the tiny amount of heat the pump would add ( if it's water cooled) would be slim. If it makes the heat load high enough that you need to go to a bigger chiller, then your chiller is undersized to begin with.
To me the down side of using a single pump for both functions would be if the pump fails, then chiller goes down as well.
I used the chiller return on my 240 to add flow down the back side of my rock work.

 

[TaylorLee]

I'm going out to buy a pump tomorrow so I can get it up and running!

 

[AZDesertRat]

Just use the pump you have if it has the correct flow range. Whay add extra heat with a second unneeded pump when you already have a return pump? Not only will a second pump create more heat, it will also draw additional power, take up additional precious real estate in the sump etc., doesn't make any sense. You might post this on other forums for more opinions but I think you will find the majority use their return.

 

[mfinn]

Well one thing is for certain, there is more than one way to do things.

 

[TaylorLee]

My return pump is above recommended gph.

 

[AZDesertRat]

Then split the return flow so only a portion goes through the chiller using a gate or ball valve to regulat that portion of the flow. Also placing the chiller in the loop will add additional headloss so may bring the pump within range if its not way oversized.
What size display tank, pump and chiller do you have?